CAD/CAM for Complex Woven Fabrics. Part II: Multi-layer Fabrics

This is the second paper of a two-part series dealing with the establishment of mathematical models for two types of 3D woven-fabric structures, i.e. backed cloths and multi-layer fabrics. Part I of this series dealt with the mathematical models for backed cloths. In Part II, weaves for multi-layer fabrics are mathematically described and models set up for the automatic generation of weaves. Apart from specification of the weaves for each layer, the combination of yarns from each layer and stitching possibilities among the layers are considered. A self-stitching method is employed in the models, and work is done to ensure that a stitch would not interfere with the fabric structure. The models are implemented in a Windows-based CAD/CAM program written in Visual Basic. Cross-sectional visualisation and draft and lifting-plan calculations are among the important features of the program.